Public frustration is mounting in Benue State over the continued non-payment of long-standing pension arrears, with many accusing Governor Hyacinth Alia of failing to fulfil his campaign promise to clear all outstanding pensions.
Social media users, including pension rights advocates, have highlighted that accumulated arrears from previous administrations — spanning the tenures of former Governors George Akume, Gabriel Suswam, and Samuel Ortom remain largely unpaid. Critics claim that Governor Alia has indicated his government will only pay pensions from May 2023 to 2026, leaving many retired civil servants who served under earlier governments without relief.
One widely shared post questioned the fate of pensioners who believed Alia’s assurances during his election campaign. It also noted that even some pensioners promised payment under the current administration are yet to receive any funds. The post drew comparisons with past administrations, stating that the Ortom government did not experience local ASUU strikes at Benue State University except during nationwide actions, unlike the current situation.
The growing discontent has led to renewed calls for accountability and possible protests by affected pensioners and their families. As of now, there has been no official statement from the Benue State Government addressing the latest round of criticisms regarding the pension arrears.
